Exhibitions

The Civil War in AmericaLincoln's First Inaugural Address

Transcription

I therefore consider that, in view of the constitution and the law, the Union is unbroken; and to the extent of my ability, I shall take care, as the constitution itself expressly enjoins upon me, that the laws of the Union be faithfully executed in all the states. Doing this I deem to be only a simple duty on my part; and I shall perform it, so far as practicable, unless my rightful masters, the American people, shall withhold the requisite means, or, in some tangible way authoritative manner, direct the contrary. I trust this will not be regarded as a menace, but only as the declared purpose of the Union that it willhave its own, and defend itself. constitutionally defend, and maintain itself.